How Much Does A Hitachi Excavator Cost?

Last Updated on August 9, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

As a leading global manufacturer of heavy construction and mining equipment for over 100 years, Hitachi produces an extensive range of hydraulic excavators well-suited for diverse industries and applications.

When evaluating and purchasing a Hitachi excavator, it’s important for contractors, fleet owners, and equipment buyers to thoroughly understand the various factors that influence these machines’ price points across the size categories.

Exact pricing depends on the machine’s size class, horsepower, lift capacity, features, customization and other variables matched to the needs and productivity requirements of the specific jobsite or application.

How Much Does A Hitachi Excavator Cost?

New Hitachi excavator costs typically range from $50,000 for compact 2-3 ton mini-excavator models up to $1,000,000+ for the largest, most robust 120+ ton specialized mining excavators.

Hitachi offers an expansive range of excavators segmented by operating weight, lift capacity, digging depth and overall power capability:

• Micro Excavators – Under 1 ton for ultra-compact access such as landscaping and finishing jobs. $40,000 – $55,000 range.
• Mini Excavators – 1 to 6 tons for maneuverability in tight spaces like utilities, narrow digging and small foundations. $50,000 – $80,000 range.
• Compact Excavators – 6 to 10 tons for residential and commercial construction, modest-scale municipal projects. $80,000 – $130,000 range.
• Mid-sized Excavators – 10 to 33 tons for extensive commercial construction, site development and public works applications. $130,000 – $320,000 range.
• Full-Sized Excavators – Above 33 tons for heavy highway/infrastructure, demolition, pipeline and quarry projects. $320,000 – $600,000 range.
• Large Mining Excavators – From 100 to 120+ tons for the most challenging high-volume mining and mass excavation jobs. Up to $1,000,000+ range.

Aligning the excavator model, performance specifications and features closely to the intended work routines and requirements optimizes productivity, efficiency and return on investment.

According to Made-in-China, prices for used Hitachi excavators can range from $7,000 to $25,000, depending on the model and its condition. For instance, a used Hitachi ZX70 mini excavator can be priced between $14,000 and $15,000, while larger models like the ZX240 can cost between $18,000 and $25,000.

Machineryline lists various Hitachi excavators with prices starting around $11,000 for older models and going up to $55,000 for newer, more powerful tracked excavators. For example, a 2019 tracked excavator is priced at approximately $25,000, while a 2023 model can be listed for around $31,730.

Alibaba provides a broad range of pricing for Hitachi excavators, indicating that the costs can range from $3,980 to $50,000 depending on the model and specifications. For instance, smaller mini excavators can be found for around $3,980 to $4,800, while larger, more advanced models can reach prices of $23,000 to $26,000.

Factors That Determine Excavator Pricing

Several primary considerations directly impact the purchase price when selecting the optimal Hitachi excavator:

• Weight Class & Lift Capacity – The overall size category and rated lifting capability dictate broad price tiers. Larger, more powerful machines come at exponentially higher cost.
• Horsepower & Engine Size – More robust Cummins, Isuzu and MTU diesel engines matched to deeper digging depths and greater lift ratings add more value.
• Hydraulic System – Enhanced hydraulic pumps, cylinders and cooling capacity necessary for demanding applications increase price.
• Technology Features – Automation capabilities, telematics monitoring, comfort amenities and safety enhancements carry premiums.
• New vs. Used Condition – New excavators come at full list pricing, while used equipment saves approximately 20-40% but has wear and age.
• Custom Attachments – Additional attachments like hydraulic hammers, augers, grapples and coupler systems expand functionality but also boost purchase price.
• Regional Market Factors – Local excavator supply availability and demand influences pricing deals and incentives that dealers can offer.

Matching machine capabilities and inclusions closely to the specific project or work scope requirements maximizes productivity and value. Customization also improves performance but results in added upfront expense that must be weighed against utility.

Hitachi Mini Excavators

For light-duty excavation jobs in constrained areas, Hitachi’s lineup of micro and mini excavators weighing under 6 tons provide agile, compact versatility:

• ZX17U-6 – 1.7-ton model starts around $55,000.
• ZX26U-6 – 2.6-ton size for $65,000.
• ZX35U-6 – 3.3-ton capacity priced from $75,000.
• ZX55U-5 – 5.7-ton excavator costing $95,000.

These nimble, short-tail-swing excavators are ideal for residential and commercial landscaping, narrow utility installations, grading, small scale demolition and similar tight-access tasks. Their reduced footprint makes them easily transportable between sites.

You might also like our articles about the cost of excavator rental, mini excavators, or Bobcat tractors.

Mid-Range Excavators

Occupying the widest product range, Hitachi’s extensive mid-sized excavator lineup provides an optimized balance of robust performance, versatility, and moderate pricing:

• ZX75US-6 – 7.7-ton excavator starts around $120,000.
• ZX85US-6 – 8.7-ton model for $140,000.
• ZX130-6 – 13-ton capacity from $170,000.
• ZX210LC-6 – 21-ton excavator for $220,000.

With digging depths of 15-23 feet and bucket breakout forces from 11,000 to 38,000 lb.-ft, Hitachi’s mid-range excavators handle the majority of commercial construction tasks like trenching, site prep, demolition, grading, and pipe laying with ease across a broad scope of projects. Their power-to-price ratio is optimized for most buyers’ productivity and budget requirements.

Large Hitachi Excavators

For heavy mining, mass excavation, demolition, quarrying, and other intensive applications, Hitachi’s range of full-sized and mining-class excavators from 50 to 120+ tons deliver:

• ZX470LCH-6 – 47-ton model offers around $350,000.
• ZX890LCH-6 – 88-ton capacity for $550,000.
• ZX1250-7 – 124-ton excavator starts from $800,000.

These high-production machines boast digging depths from 25-45 feet and bucket breakout forces exceeding 100,000 lb.-ft. Their unmatched lifting strength and power justify the major investment for owners requiring optimized output and efficiency at scale.

Buying vs. Renting Hitachi Excavators

Two primary options exist when it comes to acquiring a Hitachi excavator for a specific construction or mining project:

Buying Advantages

• Full ownership equity in the asset
• No recurring hourly operating costs after purchase
• Favorable tax write-offs and depreciation benefits
• Complete control over maintenance and specifications

Renting Advantages

• No large down payment requirement
• Lower initial cost outlay over buying
• Flexibility for short-term projects or fluctuating demand
• Latest models and updates without long-term commitment

In general, renting suits smaller contractors with inconsistent project volume well, while larger firms benefit more from buying to build equity in their fleet. But each option provides unique advantages based on the situation.

Financing Options

Since high-quality excavators represent one of the largest capital equipment investments many construction firms make, Hitachi Financial Services and dealers provide various financing programs to ease the burden of ownership including:

• Installment Loans – Extended multi-year loan terms tailored to the customer’s budget and monthly cash flow. Makes payments more affordable.
• Operating Leases – Lower monthly payments by leasing just like renting while preserving more working capital upfront.
• Trade-In Credits – Accepting and appraising old equipment to offset a percentage of the new purchase price.
• Certified Used Machines – Lower-cost alternatives to new excavators that undergo reconditioning and include limited warranty protections.

These flexible financing options reduce sticker shock from the high upfront payments associated with excavators. Programs make it easier for buyers to acquire the productive equipment their business needs while balancing budget limitations.

How To Save On Hitachi Excavators

Savvy buyers use several techniques to maximize savings off list pricing when investing in Hitachi excavators:

• Purchase Used Excavators – Late model, low-hour used Hitachi equipment typically saves 20-30% or more off the cost of new. Prioritize newer condition machines with full-service records.
• Negotiate Aggressively with Dealers – Leverage package deals, discounts and incentives with dealers to lower the final purchase price. Avoid paying full MSRP.
• Limit Attachments & Accessories – Practice restraint by only acquiring attachments that are essential for the scope of work. Avoid overspending on unnecessary upgrades just because they are available.
• Consider Short-Term Rental – For smaller contractors or one-off projects, short term rental may ultimately be more cost-effective than buying idle capacity.

Aligning machine specifications tightly to actual application requirements, researching prices and negotiating assertively, buying used when feasible, and renting select projects all optimize ownership costs.

Final Words

Hitachi excavators range from $50,000 for compact mini-excavators up to $1,000,000+ for the largest, purpose-built mining models. The machine’s size class, included features, customer negotiation skills, and other market factors all contribute to the final purchase price.

Matching the excavator closely to work needs ensures it will deliver value for years to come.

Answers to Common Questions

How much does excavator fuel cost per hour?

Excavator fuel consumption averages around 7-12 gallons per hour under load. With diesel prices fluctuating between $3-$5/gallon, projected fuel costs range $25-$60 per operating hour. Larger machines use more fuel. Careful operation and maintenance optimize fuel efficiency.

Are Hitachi excavators reliable?

Yes, Hitachi excavators are highly regarded for durability, longevity, and reliable operation even under intense working conditions. Robust component design, quality engineering, and Japanese manufacturing result in typical machine life reaching over 20,000 hours before rebuild. Proper maintenance optimizes reliability.

What types of engines do Hitachi excavators use?

Hitachi excavators are powered by turbocharged, water-cooled diesel engines. Mini models often use 3 to 4-cylinder Yanmar or Isuzu engines. Large excavators rely on robust 6-cylinder Cummins or Isuzu diesels. Engines range from just over 100 HP on mini-excavators to over 500 HP on the largest mining machines. Horsepower aligns with dig depth and lifting capacity.